Arnold Foote (second left) and his children are all smiles while he gives his response. From left are Roma, Arnold, Arnold Jr and Kimberly.

Arnold Foote and his wife, Patricia, enjoying the party.

The gorgeous duo of Roma Foote (left) and Veena Chanrai are all smiles for our camera.

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Cathy Risden, Lifestyle Writer

Arnold Foote had a very touching moment as he celebrated his 80th birthday with family, friends and associates at The Talk of the Town, at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel last Thursday.

It was a very special occasion for those present, who were delighted to be in the company of an extraordinary man who has made a tremendous contribution to his family and the development of his country.

Foote is the founder and owner of Advertising and Marketing Jamaica Limited and president of the World Federation of Consuls.

TREASURED MOMENTS

With over 100 guests present, Foote felt the love and appreciation, especially during the toasts. The second of three children and Foote's only son - Arnold Foote Junior's voice broke as he shared stories of treasured moments he has had with his father. Foote's wife of 35 years, Patricia, describes her husband as her soul mate - kind, generous, a loving husband and father - and said that she could not have spent her life with anyone else. Foote's first daughter, Roma, and younger daughter, Kimberley, said they were proud of their father and they love and cherish their family moments. "Daddy, you are an amazing friend and mentor, and I love you. Happy birthday," Kimberly concluded.

In his response, Foote told guests that he thanked God for life, protection, strength and wisdom to have made it thus far. He said that he was grateful to his wife, Patricia, and all the support and love she has given him. "Without her, I would not have been here today ... . I will not be able to thank her enough for the happiest 35 years of my life."

He shared how proud he is of JJ and Kimberly for how they have run the company. Foote noted that he is looking forward to being a great grandfather in January, because he loves his family and enjoys spending time with them.

Just like old times, Patricia and Arnold Foote blew out and cut the birthday cake together.

Entertainment

The live entertainment for the evening included the Warm and Easy Band, which had guests singing along and rocking to the rhythms of oldies but goodies. The party picked up in tempo with an appearance by the 'Calypso King of the World' Slinger Francisco, better known as the Mighty Sparrow. He had guests on the tip of their toes, singing along and laughing in between his gimmicks.

Among specially invited guest was former Governor General Sir Kenneth Hall, former Prime Minister Edward Seaga, Chilean Ambassador Eduardo Bonilla, Ambassador of Dominican Republic José Tomas Ares, German and Colombian Ambassador Guillermo Willy Martinez-Fernandez and his wife, Gertrudis, Leif-Kristian Sverstad, and other members of the World Federation of Consuls.